History

The Order of Liberation (Wisam al-Tahrir) was established by Shaikh Jabir III in 1991 or 1993. The Order is conferred in 5 Classes by the Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces in recognition of service in the liberation of Kuwait from occupying Iraqi forces between August 2, 1990, and August 31, 1993. Both military and civil Kuwaiti personnel who have provided 1 day or more of land, sea, or air direct support of military operations, or who have provided 30 days or 60 non-consecutive days of temporary duty qualify for the award. Personnel of foreign allied nations are also eligible for the award of the Order. Qualifying areas of operation include service in the Arabia Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and United Arab Emirates.

The Order may also be awarded posthumously to the next of kin of personnel who were killed as a result of military action. Posthumous awards are issued one Class higher than the recipient would otherwise be entitled to.

The IV Class is awarded to enlisted personnel. Civilians who hold a status which is similar in relation to the military service rank structure are eligible for membership in the IV Class. The IV Class was commonly awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who served in the liberation of Kuwait.

Each Class of the Order differs in design. The IV Class features an Arabic inscription on the obverse which translates to "Liberation Medal 1991" and is often referred to as the Kuwait Liberation Medal.